There has been a large increase in reports of scam phone calls from people claiming to be HM Revenue and Customs (HMRC).
How it works:
- The scammer claims there an overdue tax bill or the resident has been overpaid tax credits.
- They say the resident must pay up immediately or they will be taken to court where they could face 5 years in prison or someone will come to their address and collect goods to that value.
In some calls the scammer claimed to be a police officer and said there is a warrant for their arrest!
How they are asking for payment:
- By bank transfer and to send a photo via WhatsAPP to prove the transfer has been done or
- Buying iTunes or Amazon vouchers and sending a photo of the voucher codes via WhatsAPP
One victim could only pay cash and was given directions on where to leave the money!
These calls are not being made by HMRC!
What to do:
- Hang up and don’t return their calls.
- NEVER disclose any personal information such as bank details or date of birth, no matter who the person claims to be.
- Contact HMRC if you’re worried about a call you’ve received
- If you have already given money to the scammers, contact Kent Police by calling 101.